The Official Monthly Magazine of Dubai`s RTA

Issue No. 105 March 2017

RTA is the first in the world

in transport sector services
technologies.
AAV takes off with «Tesla› provides RTA with
Dubai`s leading aloft. 200 electric vehicles.
Vision
Mission

Vision
Safe and Smooth Transport for All

Mission
Develop integrated and sustainable
transportation systems and provide
distinguished services to all stakeholders
to support Dubai’s comprehensive growth
plans through preparing policies and
legislations, adapting technologies and
innovative approaches, and implementing
.world-class practices and standards

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer
Director General and Chairman of
the Board of Executive Directors
Globalization
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) marked last February with a new achievement,
putting it on the global excellence and pioneering map with ‘RTA Dubai’ smart app winning
an award for the best government service via mobile phone worldwide in transportation
and infrastructure sector at the World Government Summit 2017. RTA’s team had
the honor of receiving the award from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al
Maktoum, UAE Vice-president and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai in the awarding
ceremony at the conclusion of the World Government Summit in the presence of Their
Highnesses the Sheikhs, and officials and leaders from different parts of the world.
This is the second achievement for RTA at the the World Government Summit, where it
has previously won in 2016 the same award on the national level. RTA also won the best
app award within the Hamdan bin Mohammed Program for Smart Government in 2015
and 2016. This success doubles the responsibility and challenge in delivering the smart
services for RTA customers.
To ensure reaching the aspirations and happiness of the customers, RTA has tremendously
updated its smart app ‘RTA Dubai’ that included changes on the design of the external and
internal screens. The highest measures were also taken into consideration and applied
on the latest version such as Touch ID, and introduction of some wearables services.
The app includes more than 45 services of the most frequently used ones like, the
services of vehicles and drivers, parking, nol and Salik cards. Taxi booking services were
also introduced; tracking the taxi before reaching, obtaining the driver’s details, viewing
prepaid processes and the instant chatting that allows the user to talk to the customer
service agents to submit his complaints, remarks and suggestions. The app available in
4 languages namely, Arabic, English, Hindi and Russian. In addition, the app contains the
happiness indicator service that enables the client to rate his/her satisfaction over the app
send it to RTA. There is also RTA’s Navigator service that guides the user on destinations
and displaying roads and routes options that can be taken.
RTA is moving forward and it will focus next on the continuous improvement and
development of its smart services, enhance the innovation spirit and develop the
Public Private Partnership (PPP) and strategic partners to deliver distinct smart services
to the public.
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 2 - 3
GENERAL SUPERVISOR
CONTENT
Moza Saeed Almarri
06 RTA is the first in the world in transport
EDITOR IN CHIEF sector services technologies.
AlMoatasem Belah Mohammed
AAV takes off with Dubai`s leading aloft.
MANAGING DIRECTOR An agreement with TESLA results in 200
Mohammed Al Munji
autonomous electric vehicles.
EDITING MANAGER
Magdy Abu Zeed
16 Ahmed bin Mohammed honors the DAST winners.
EDITING MANAGER
Nashwan Mahmood

PHOTOGRAPHY
Syed Zaheer Haidar
Our news
20 American Consul reviews smart transit projects.
DESIGN &
MARKETING 21 Opening the smart monitoring center at Licensing Agency.

Our projects
22 Accomplishing 30% of Airport Road Development.
Art Director
Said Mansour

CONTACT US
P.O.Box: 118899 Dubai,U.A.E
Tel: +971 4 2903989
Fax: +971 4 2903933
Email: magazine@rta.ae
www.rta.ae

06
Almasar Application is available on Apple store
Reciprocal Al Masar magazine Editorial Board offers the Reciprocal Ads initiative whereby a space for an advert is
& Goole play by name: almasar magazine Ads allocated to strategic partners and other government entities against allocating the same space in the
Initiative magazine of the beneficial entity during the same month for the benefit of the RTA.
 06

Our services
24 200 vehicles launch smart rental service.

26 Smart app responds to taxi emergencies.

27 Multiple addresses feature supports dispatch system.

28 The huge interest extends smart vehicle working hours.

Figures
30 AED4.8 million revenues of 45th electronic auction.

35 More than 1.6 million Wojhati users in 2016.

16
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 4 - 5
Cover Story

Trial of the AAV is a smart change we provide to

make people happy, Mohammed bin Rashid
Man’s passion of knowledge and sciences push
him to develop innovative ideas
Cooperation in ‘Summit’ is an example to be
followed in joining forces of governments and
different parties
HH inspected the AAV and honored the win-
ners of World Governments Race
His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister,
and Ruler of Dubai blessed the brand new project of the Autonomous Aerial Vehicle (AAV)
adopted by RTA in Dubai. His Highness considered the trial of the AAV an initiative within
the total and smart change policy of the service level the UAE is delivering in general and
Dubai in particular for the sake of making people happy, facilitating their living and ensuring
their stability.
This has been stated on the sideline of the World Governments
Summit 2017 during the inspection of His Highness to the AAV
‘EHANG 184,’ works without pilot and can be used to carry man
and goods at a maximum load of 100kg only.
His Highness praised RTA’s efforts and its progressive endeav-
or to be unique at the Arabian region level in providing excellent
and smart services to the public, confirming his support and en-
couragement to all strategic plans and programs the RTA imple-
ments to upgrade the level of services at global specifics and
criteria.
His Highness RTA’s action team members of the UAE male and
female citizens headed by Mattar Al Tayer who are all work hard
persevere and innovate a new service everyday related to pro-
viding comfort and safety for all segments of the society.
His Highness learned about the AAV components, through
the explanation given by HE Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, who
pointed out that the AAV had been purchased from China. The
debut of it will be in July within the city of Dubai that is being cir-
culated and used more widely in the future after making sure of
the success of the trial and demonstrating its feasibility and ef-
fectiveness.
Al Tayer explained the properties of the AAV, which is designed
to carry one person who determines the destination he wishes
to reach, through an intelligent device installed onboard.
Monitoring and control process onboard are conducted by a
ground control center. It is powered by electricity, and can fly for
thirty minutes, and gusts of up to 100 kilometers per hour, and
can travel up to fifty kilometers per trip.
“The AAV is designed to take into account the safety stan-
dards and is equipped with eight engines and can land
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 6 - 7
 Cover Story
safely in the event of a motor failure, confirming that it
can carry people and goods. It supports Dubai’s strategy
to make the city the smartest in the world, which aims to
convert 25% of the total mobility flights in Dubai trips to
be autonomous by 2030 The AAV also supports the inte-
gration of transport system of the RTA in Dubai.”
The first autonomous aerial manned vehicle
The (EHANG184), revealed by RTA during the World Govern-
ments Summit in 2017, which Dubai hosted under the patron-
age of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Mak-
toum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, is
equipped with a touchscreen in front passenger seat, containing
a map that contains all destinations in points, and preset routes.
The passenger selects the destination that he wants to reach.
Then, the vehicle starts, launches and flies, and lands in the
specified location. The AAV performance is monitored through
a ground control center.
The AAV automation relies on starting each engine separately
and separation between the vehicle systems and components.
In case of any emergency or failure in the first engine, other sev-
en engines performing the flying and landing safely, and mitigat-
ing the failure and error in the first engine. The AAV is unique in a
number of essential systems that work at the same time, but in-
dependently. In case any failure occurs, there is the spare system
capable of controlling it and leading the AAV to the programmed
HE Mattar Al Tayer stressed that the successful operation
of an aerial autonomous vehicle capable of carrying a hu-
man being, contributes to the creation of a major break-
through in the field of transport and mobility systems,
which provides innovative solutions and reduce congestion
in the city.
destination safely.
The AAV is designed to fly for 30 minutes at maximum. Its speed
is 160km an hour and its automatic fixed speed is 100km an
hour. Its averaged launch and rise speed is 6 meters per second
and its averaged landing speed is 4 meters per second. Its length
is 3.9 meters, width is 4.02 meters, and height is 1.60 meter. Its
weight is estimated to 250 kg and its weight with a passenger
is 360kg. It maximum altitude is 3000 feet and its battery du-
ration between 1 to 2 hours. It is designed to work in different
climatic conditions except for thunder storms. It is equipped with
highly accurate sensors with a low mistake and these sensors
are vibration, pressure resistant and high temperature resistant.
“Etisalat contributed to the success of the AAV trial as a main
network provider where the 4G data network is used for com-
munication between the vehicle and the ground control center. It
provide the support required for continuation required between
the vehicle and the ground control center through using the M2M
and the LTE technology.
RTA is a global technology pioneer
On the other hand, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler
of Dubai honored the winners of the awards of the World Gov-
ernments Race for Technology Pioneers at the conclusion of the
activities of the fifth session of the World Governments Summit.
RTA won an award for the best government service via mobile
phone worldwide for the transportation sector and infrastructure.
“Our world is in need of developing and instigating minds in all ar-
eas. We, the governments, are responsible for a comprehensive
practical leadership to ensure the best investment in minds and in
the future technology.”
The World Governments Race for Technology Pioneers embod-
ies the UAE message and the world governments’ directives that
answer the future questions and stipulate solutions for its chal-
lenges in pursuit of man’s goodness, luxury and happiness.
Attending the ceremony were HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Moham-
med bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, HH Sheikh
Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler
of Dubai, HE Amal Al Qubaisi, Chairman of the Federal National
Council, and Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy
Minister Minister and Minister of Interior, HH Sheikh Mansour bin
Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Presidential
Affairs, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of
Dubai Civil Aviation, chairman of Emirates Group, Sheikh Ahmed
bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman Mohammed
bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, HH Sheikh Mansour bin Mo-
hammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the wife of His Highness Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Princess Haya bint Al Hus-
sein, HE Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister of Cabinet
Affairs and the future, Chairman of the World Governments Sum-
mit and a number of sheikhs, ministers and officials.
The World Governments Race for Technology Pioneers includes
three awards: Award for the best government service via mobile
phone, and the award for best emerging technologies in govern-
ment, and the government award for digital transactions.
In the transportation and infrastructure sector, Austria, the UAE
and the United States. RTA won the award for its app that includes
a list of services and features designed with the latest standards,
to support roads and public transport users in the Emirate of Dubai
to pay for parking, and book a taxi, or pay traffic fines, and allows
users to register, and renew licenses, and many other services.
In the security and safety sector, Dubai Police app won the award.
This app provides a large number of intelligent and integrated ser-
vices. ‘The possibility of Learning’ app of Australia won the award
for the best government service via mobile phone in the educa-
tion sector. In the health sector, ‘the Ministry of Health’ app in Bra-
zil won the award. In the social affairs sector, the app Onkoemn of
Germany’s Federal Office for migration and refugees. In the tour-
ism sector, the app ‘Visit Abu Dhabi’ of Abu Dhabi Tourism and
Culture Authority, and in the environment sector, the app ‘Este
Energia’ from Estonia Company for Energy won the award.
In economy and trade sector, the app ‘Vendors’ from the Accoun-
tant General Department of the Ministry of Finance of Singapore
won the award. In the overall application category, the application
of ‘e-government’ in Kazakhstan won the award. Three pioneer
governments won the best emerging technologies awards: the
electronic health establishment in Estonia, the Ministry of Trans-
port of Singapore for its technology of ‘autonomous vehicles’ and
the third winner of the best emerging technology was the Gov-
ernment of the Netherlands represented by the Smart City of
Amsterdam using the ‘Platform Internet of Things.’
In Award of ‘Governments Hackathon Governments for digital
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 8 - 9
 Cover Story
transactions, which aims to experiment new technologies to pro-
duce new technologies to obtain distinct apps designed by col-
lege students and emerging companies from around the world,
using the Block Chin Technology, the first place of $ 100 thousand
award went to app ‘Project Oaken,’ the second place award went
to app ‘Health Blocks,’ while third place was awarded to the app
‘Land Registry.’
A Global Awarding
On the other hand, H.H honored the winners in the World Gov-
ernments Race for Technology Pioneers at the conclusion of the
Fifth World Governments Summit.
“Our world is need of developing and instigating the minds in all
areas. We, the governments, are responsible for leading a com-
prehensive process to ensure the best benefit from the minds in
the future technology. The World Governments Race for Tech-
nology Pioneers embodies the UAE message and the world
governments’ summit that answer the future questions and
stipulate solutions for its challenge seeking goodness, luxury
Signing new partnership agreements
His Highness witnessed the signing of agreements with the
World Governments Summit partners in its 5th session that con-
vened under the theme of ‘Shaping the Future Governments’ in
the presence of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid
Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and HH Sheikh Maktoum bin
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy ruler of Dubai.
“The cooperation in the World Governments Summit is an ex-
ample of joining forces between the government and different
and happiness for man,” said HH.
The World Governments Race for Technology Pioneers includes
three awards: the award of the best government service via mo-
bile, the award of the best startup technologies in the govern-
ments and the virtual governments’ hackathon for digital deals.
In the public transport and infrastructure Austria, UAE and USA
qualified and RTA Dubai app won. The app contains a list of ser-
vices and features designed at the latest criteria to support the
PT users in Dubai including parking rates payment, taxi booking
and traffic fines payment. It also allows users to register, renew
their DLs and many other services.
A dedication to Khamis Al Mazeina
The Dubai HQ dedicated its winning the award of the best
government service via the mobile for the security and safety
at the World Governments Summit, to the late Khamis Matar
Al Mazeina in recognition of what he did in the smart services
of Dubai Police to make the UAE community in the security
and safety sector.
government and private entities, and the role played by compa-
nies to make such activities a success and developing them to
get to new horizons,” said His Highness.
HH witnessed agreements for the next session and took a me-
morial picture with the partners, namely Abu Dhabi Develop-
ment Fund, Dubai RTA, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Word Ports,
Emirates, DEWA, Al Tayer Motors, Dodsal, Lulu Group, Du,
James Education and VPS Health.
“MBR’s vision transforms Dubai to the international leading in the
autonomous by 2030,” Al Tayer
For his part, HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman
of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Au-
thority, that the launch of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin
Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and
Ruler of Dubai of Dubai’s strategy to move smart self-driving,
which aims to convert 25% of the total trips, to a self-driving
trips by 2030, making a self-driving mobility a reality. It is being
developed continuously where technology was tested in several
cities and countries around the world including Dubai, Singapore,
USA, Britain, pointing out that the government of Dubai, which
aspires to occupy a leading position in a self-driving movement,
by 2030, is driving this process in the emirate, while private com-
panies take this transformation, in many countries of the world.
Al Tayer predicted that the percentage of trips by the self-driving
Dubai metro to 12.2% in 2030 compared to 8.8% in 2016, and
the proportion of trips up self-driving by bus to 6.4% in 2030.
This has been stated in his speech at the key session at the World
Governments Summit 2017 under the theme of ‘Self-Driving
Transport, Global Challenges and Future Opportunities.’
In his speech, Al Tayer presented a short on the AAV that the
RTA tries in the sky of the city of Dubai in collaboration with the
Chinese EHANG Company. It is the first autonomous aerial ve-
hicle in the world capable of carrying a human being. He said: the
AAV presented at the World Governments Summit is not only a
model, as we tried it and flew it in the sky of Dubai, stressing that
RTA would do its utmost to develop this AAV into operation in
July 2017.
Phase two of Dubai tram includes trial of
fully automated trams
“Dubai succeeded in few years in occupying a good position glob-
ally in this area thanks to the vision of the wise leadership that
specified a clear-cut target to convert 25% of the total trips to
self-driving ones by 2030. Dubai metro is considered the world’s
longest driverless metro. It carries over 600 thousand passen-
gers daily in addition to the operation of Dubai tram that contains
some of the autonomous driving technologies. The Dubai trams
in its phase two will involve the trial of fully automated trams.
Starting the demo operation of autonomous
vehicles, small buses and boats
Dubai has also started experimental operation of autonomous
vehicles and small buses and a trial run of autonomous boats. In
addition, studying to provide fast autonomous buses. Besides, a
study to provide autonomous taxis with international companies,
and the application of initiatives to cover the first and the latter
miles in partnership with the private sector, including the hourly
rental with U-Drive and Ekar, and begin by providing appropriate
infrastructure and electric eco-friendly vehicles, which may turn
out in the future to Resume compounds leadership, stressing
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 10 - 11
 Cover Story
that Dubai aspires to occupy a leading position by 2030 through
an integrated strategy to move smart self-leadership with iden-
tifying targets clear, enacting and implementing the required
legislation, and building strategic partnerships with universities
and research centers and specialized companies partnerships.
Global challenges
HE Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive
Directors of RTA in his speech pointed out that global and do-
mestic challenges facing the self-driving movement, identified
in four main areas: The first relates to infrastructure and include
high-accuracy requirements and continuous updating of maps,
road signs, traffic signals, signboards are clear and design appro-
priate for the right of way, and the second challenge on legisla-
tion and laws, and includes technical testing and licensing stan-
dards, and insurance mechanisms, and limitation of liability in
case of an accident, and the conditions and places the conduct of
these compounds, stressing that the legislative system in Dubai
is characterized by flexibility and the ability to keep abreast of
developments and changes all, but the third challenge relates to
safety and the receptivity of the audience a self-vehicle driving,
normal may not feel comfortable when using a self-driving vehi-
cles, in the tracks regular vehicles, and this requires a major role
of governments, to promote awareness among the public, and
to provide new technologies to the public in a manner reinforc-
es confidence in them, He pointed out that the RTA developed
after the Dubai Metro opening that works without a driver, put
people at the forefront of the metro to represent the role of the
driver, for six months in order to reassure the passengers, and
encourage them to use the metro, and the fourth challenge in
technological requirements for effective sensors and cameras,
in different atmosphere, and the requirements of the protection
of electronic piracy. for example, manufacturers Resume com-
pounds leadership faces many challenges in the field of technol-
ogy include: the difficulty of dealing with sudden changes, during
the flight, such as a sudden stop for another vehicle in front of
self-driving vehicle, and the difficulty of making appropriate de-
cisions in the case of another vehicle approaching rapidly from
behind, and the overlap between scanners for technics self-driv-
ing vehicles, in the case of many of them on a busy road.
Local Challenges
“Along with the global challenges of autonomous driving, there
are local challenges in Dubai, including the harsh climatic condi-
tions in the region of high temperatures, high humidity, and its
impact on technical systems to navigate self-leadership, as well
as the multiplicity of nationalities and cultures in Dubai due to
put to work and tourism world center, where in Dubai more than
190 nationalities, and this affects the dealers to accept this new
technology, as well as the need to provide appropriate means
for connecting passengers to their final destinations, in light of
weather conditions.”
“To address these challenges, prepared by Dubai’s strategy
to navigate self-leadership, which is distinct from other glob-
al strategies led by the government of Dubai to the process of
transition to a self-driving movement, while the private compa-
nies, which is leading this transformation in many other cities and
states, also features Dubai’s strategy, cover all means of mass
transportation, from trains, buses and marine transport modes
and taxis, as well as private vehicles, while many countries fo-
cus on a limited number of means, the strategy also includes a
global competition to attract advanced companies in the smart
mobility, we will announce the details later.”
8 Possibilities
He explained: “it is to overcome those challenges were identi-
fied eight enablers, will be working on them in parallel Name-
ly, legislation and laws relating to Resume vehicle leadership,
and promote behavior and social acceptance of this technology,
and the development of requirements and regulations to license
self-driving vehicles, an amendment to the insurance regulations,
and implementation of infrastructure requirements infrastructure,
anti-hacking, and achieve communication between vehicles, and
the construction of high-resolution maps, stressing that self-driv-
ing mobility application to achieve many of the benefits, we have
begun in Dubai to achieve part of these benefits in the Dubai Met-
ro, self-leadership, in terms of improved commitment to schedule
trips by 6.4% compared to an ordinary train systems, and lower
operating costs by 7%.” He expected to be the Dubai strategy of
autonomous driving would generate benefits estimated at AED22
billion a year, along with reduced mobility expenses by about 44%,
and reduce the demand for positions by 50%, and reduce carbon
emissions by 12%, and reduce traffic accidents and losses caused
by them by economic benefits 12%, as well as raise the happiness
of the population rates, by providing new options for mobility.
Success factors
He added that the success of the self-driving mobility strategy,
depends on several factors, including the comprehensiveness and
accuracy of information, and sharing effectively, To achieve this,
the adoption of the Commission is currently united center for the
integration of all information from all modes of transportation, and
it will open soon, as well as building effective partnerships with
companies and global universities, where the Commission has
recently signed agreements with international companies such
as Daimler and the Next Future Transport and Hyperloop One,
as the body conducting field tests with Easy Mile company, along
with the establishment of alliances with universities and centers of
global research, to conduct research in the field of self-technology
leadership, commensurate with the Emirate requirements Dubai.
Closing his speech, he expressed optimism about the potential
self-vehicle driving, he said, soon will be a trip Resume vehicle
driving is like riding the elevator, we all trust in the closed fund,
which takes us from one level to another, because we know that
it is safe and ready and has been tested, this is what the RTA is
working to achieve through a self-driving vehicles and initiatives
emanating from the strategy.HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-Gen-
eral and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads
and Transport Authority (RTA), was delighted with RTA’s winning
the Best Government Service via Mobile Phone worldwide in the
Transport & Infrastructure Sector during the World Government
Summit. RTA team has had the honour of accepting the award
from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-Presi-
dent and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, during the
awards presentation ceremony attended by scores of Sheikhs and
top executives from all over the globe.
“What adds to our pleasure is that it is the second time for RTA to
achieve this international accolade, which brings in an extra burden
& challenge of continuing to improve on our smart service offering
in a way that surpasses customers’ expectations to make them
happy. RTA, which played a leading role in transforming all its cus-
tomer services into smart services, is endeavoring to improve its
smart services to ensure that they are creative, accessible and ca-
pable of bringing happiness to customers,” said Al Tayer.
“More than 1.5 million downloads were made of RTA app (RTA
DUBAI) and transactions paid through the app clocked 55,231
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 12 - 13
 Cover Story
RTA inks agreement with Tesla for buying
200 electric vehicles
The Roads and Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:
On the sidelines of the World Government Summit 2017, the Roads
and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed an agreement with Tesla
Inc., a world-leading manufacturer of autonomous electric vehicles,
for buying 200 hybrid electric vehicles fitted with several components
of autonomous driving technologies. The new vehicles will add to the
limousine fleet of the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC).
HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of
Executive Directors of RTA signed the agreement on behalf of RTA,
HE Elon Musk, Chairman & CEO of Tesla Inc. signed it on behalf of
the Company, in the presence of several executives and officials from
both parties.
“This agreement is in implementation of the directives of HH Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minis-
10X confirms the leadership vision to reach
the number one globally
HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of
Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said,
“The 10X initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Rul-
er of Dubai, is a testament to the vision and ambition of our leader-
ship to steer Dubai into the Number One position in the world. The
clear-cut directions of HH to the Dubai Government departments to
come up with innovative ideas and solutions that run 10 years ahead
ter of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into the world’s
smartest city, and the Green Economy for Sustainable Development
initiative. It is also part of the Dubai Smart Autonomous Mobility Strat-
egy aimed at transforming 25% of total journeys in Dubai into auton-
omous journeys by 2030. The agreement also reflects RTA’s efforts
towards providing driverless transportation solutions through under-
taking technological tests of autonomous transit means.
Al Tayer welcomed the step of Tesla to open an office in Dubai for
distributing and maintaining its vehicles. “Tesla has been selected
for its pioneering endeavors in the manufacturing of electric vehicles.
The Company is focused on improvement & creativity in autonomous
driving as well as the storage of power. Tesla is the sole producer of
autonomous deluxe electric vehicles and as part of its efforts to utilize
alternative energy sources; it took over Solar City Company.
of metropolitan cities. HH made it clear that the achievement of the
underlying objectives of the initiative warrants concerted efforts of
all public entities and developing innovative solutions befitting con-
temporary needs built on Think outside the Box theorem.
“Innovation is a global need for countries with robust and vibrant
economies as it is a key driver of the economic growth and prime
component of building a sustainable economy based on an integrat-
ed environment of information, technology and knowledge. The
“Last year, Tesla developed a hybrid system for generating and storing
solar energy in Tesla vehicles and broadened its scope to manufac-
ture buses and heavy vehicles. It has also improved the autonomous
driving systems by migrating from semi-autonomous driving to a fully
autonomous driving environment; thus obviating the need for a hu-
man driver. It is also engaged in improving the shared mobility service
through developing service systems for the next generation,” added
Al Tayer.
Al Tayer noted that the RTA would carry out a test run of Tesla auton-
omous hybrid electric vehicles as part of the Dubai Taxi limo fleet as
part of its objective to support the Dubai Government efforts in trans-
forming Dubai into the smartest city in mobility worldwide by 2020.
According to Tesla, the RTA will purchase Model S sedans and Model
X SUVs from Tesla for the program. Tesla’s Model S received the high-
est possible safety ratings at launch and has the longest range of any
RTA is keen on keeping abreast of successive developments seen
by the transport sector. During the World Government Summit, the
RTA has announced the start of the test run of the world’s first Aerial
Autonomous Vehicle (AAV) capable of carrying a human, branded as
EHANG184 in the skies of Dubai. We are working on starting the op-
eration of the AAV as early as July this year. The RTA is also undertak-
ing Phase III of the trial run of the first smart autonomous 10-seater
vehicle as part of Dubai Smart Autonomous Mobility Strategy of HH
Sheikh Mohammed. The strategy aims to convert 25% of the total
mobility journeys in Dubai into driverless journeys by 2030. The RTA
is also embarking on the test run of driverless boats and minibuses
and studying the Hyperloop system the first of its kind in the world
electric vehicle. Model X blends performance and utility with unique
features including falcon wing doors, a panoramic windshield and sev-
en-seat configuration, offering unprecedented convenience and ma-
neuverability. Both vehicles benefit from free over-the-air software
updates that add new features and functionality over time. In addition
to powerful all-electric vehicles, Tesla has also designed a unique set
of energy generation and storage products, Powerwall, Powerpack and
solar roof. When combined, three key components can make a positive
impact on the world: electric cars, renewable energy and batteries.
Tesla reports that the Model S and the Model X vehicles purchased by
RTA are equipped with the hardware needed for full self-driving capa-
bility at a safety level greater than that of a human driver. Tesla’s Au-
topilot is designed as a hands-on experience to give drivers more con-
fidence behind the wheel, increase their safety on the road, and make
highway driving more enjoyable by reducing the driver’s workload.
as well as express autonomous buses unpreceded worldwide.
“Among the initiatives, the RTA is mulling is a research and develop-
ment of robot vehicles for monitoring paid parking zones and devel-
oping the technology in partnership with UAE universities. Initiatives
also include the remotely piloted aircraft system to serve the control
center in monitoring the traffic movement as well as accident disas-
ter scenes through communicating vital information to the Unified
Control Center to ensure rapid deployment during emergencies.
Work is up and running with key global businesses such as IBM, Mic-
rosoft in developing interactive customer services covering improve-
ment of several smart services such as the renewal of vehicles using
Personal Assistant Using Artificial Intelligence.
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 14 - 15
 Cover Story

Ahmed bin Mohammed

honors winners of DAST
Under the patronage of Hamdan
bin Mohammed
Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed bin
Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation honored the companies and individuals win-
ners of the 9th session of the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport (DAST). The Award
is under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Mak-
toum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Executive Council, His Highness DAST is con-
sidered one of RTA’s initiatives, to stimulate public and private sectors to help reduce traffic
congestion and ensure environmental conservation.
HE Mattar Al Tayer, RTA’s DG and Chairman of the Board of
Executive Directors, and a number of government entities and
private companies’ executives received his Highness at the cel-
ebration venue in the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC).
His Highness and attendees watched a film about DAST, Dhabi’s
efforts in the environment preservation and natural wealth, and
applying the sustainable development principles, as they consti-
tute man’s future and his luxury.
The film addressed the transport and traffic on the roads, which
emit 23% of greenhouse gases in the world, due to fossil fuel
consumption, and the importance of activating the role of insti-
tutions and individuals, to provide a sustainable environment for
future generations
Efforts
It shed light on RTA’s efforts in providing Dubai system of mass
transit, which transferred during the year 2016 more than 543
million passengers. Dubai Metro through its red and green lines
191 million and 300 thousand passengers. The Dubai Tram tran-
sited 5 million and 400 thousand passengers, and public buses
151 million and 100 thousand passengers. The marine transport
modes, which include abras, the waterbus, water taxi and Ferry,
carried nearly 14 million passengers, and taxis almost transport-
ed 181 million and 800 thousand passengers.
Bernard Piccard, owner of Solar Impulse plane Initiative, made
a speech in which he addressed the importance of the concept
of sustainable transport, in the development and progression of
the cities on the economic, commercial and social levels.
Pickard stated the role of the UAE, in promoting the concept of
sustainable transport through the adoption of projects and ini-
tiatives that shape the future in this aspect. The Solar Impulse
project and the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport have a
significant impact in encouraging institutions and individuals, to
apply the main themes in the concept of sustainable transport.
Awarding
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Mak-
toum, accompanied by HE Mattar Al Tayer honored the winners
in the various categories of the award. The Abu Dhabi Depart-
ment of Municipal Affairs and Transportation came in first place
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 16 - 17
 Cover Story
in the Mobility Management category, for their applications of
‘DARB’ for sustainable services in Abu Dhabi. Al Rostomani car
Rental Company came in the second place for their digital man-
agement of the financing rental and delivery system through
portable devices. The Emirates came in third place on the initia-
tive ‘local mobility.’
In the Transport Safety category, the Emirates Authority for
Standardization and Metrology won first place, for the regulation
of trading the vehicle tires in the UAE market: ‘electronic chip in
the follow-up control of the vehicle tires poster., Emirates Trans-
port won the second place on the initiative: ‘support the way’
and Dubai Municipality came third on the initiative: ‘secure and
safe movement.’
Green initiatives
His Highness honored winners in the preservation of the envi-
ronment category. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority DEWA
came first for green initiatives in waste management. The Ahli
Driving Center came second for using the compressed natural gas
vehicles in the training. The Emirates Authority for Standardization
and Metrology came third for their initiative (green trips to empow-
er the transformation of natural gas as clean fuel for vehicles).
In the initiatives related to people with disability category, Fu-
jairah Police HQ won the first place for the project: ‘Makani Ma-
chine.’ The Dubai Ambulance came second for the initiative: am-
bulance for persons with disabilities. The third place award has
been blocked.
His Highness awarded the winners of the special awards catego-
ry. Journalist Mohamed Rabah the Khaleej newspaper won the
award for the best media man. The UAE newscast work team
of the Dubai Media Incorporated won the award on the best me-
dia team for their role in featuring the news releases and media
coverage of the topics of the award: encouraging the mass trans-
port, the preservation of the environment and raise the level of
safety in transportation.
Academic research
In the category of the best academic research, Dr. Arafat Dweik
of Khalifa University won the award. In the best student proj-
ect category, student Bakhita Mohammed Ali Al Ketbi won the
award for her project Rules of My Bus. Student Ramiz Omar
Abdul Sattar from Manipal University on his project: design and
operation of a dual energy air compressor in the air cooling sys-
tem. Student Shweta Krishna Murthy of Amity University came
third on the intelligent mobility management project, using the
micro-control systems.
Sheikh Mohammed also honored institutions and corporate
sponsors of the eighth session of the Dubai Award for Sustain-
able Transport, and the members of the jury award, headed by
Hamdan Al Shaer.
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 18 - 19
Our News

An agreement with Uber to provide

new economic transit solutions
e-booking for taxi and limos
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a cooperation agreement with Uber Tech-
nologies, the international pioneer in the technology of linking riders with drivers by one click, to
study offering new products in the economic transit to support Dubai Vision 2021.

The agreement is about fulfilling the needs of customers and

provide them with transportation solutions at a reasonable rate
in a way that contributes to reduce the number of vehicles on
roads. It also addresses the online booking service of limousines
and taxicabs, whereby Uber will offer luxurious transport ser-
vices (limousines) via online and smart Apps channels.
The service will be run according to the laws governing the oper-
ation of taxis and limousines in Dubai emirate. Uber will deploy
14,000 vehicles including 9841 taxis and 4700 limousines. tee of Follow-up and Regulation of Vehicles Booking via Call or
HE Mattar Al Tayer ,Director-General and Chairman of the Electronic Media ,Adel Shakri ,Director of Transport Systems,
Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority and Mr .Christopher Frye ,General Manager ,Uber in the UAE.
(RTA )signed the agreement on behalf of RTA ,and Mr .Anthony “This initiative signals the keenness of RTA to implement the di-
Khoury ,Regional Manager of UBER in the Middle East signed it rectives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Mak-
on behalf of Uber .Attendees at the signing ceremony were Mo- toum ,Vice President ,Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of
hammed Obaid Al Mulla ,Board Member cum Chair of the Dubai Dubai to rank Dubai as the smartest city world-wide since smart
Taxi Corporation Council ,Abdullah Yousef Al Ali ,CEO of Public mobility is one of the key elements of smart cities .The agree-
Transport Agency ,Nasser Hamad BuShehab ,CEO of Strategy ment with Uber offers a new service for residents and visitors
and Corporate Services Sector and Chair of the Higher Commit- who wish to move around Dubai by taxis and limousines.

Opening smart monitoring

center at Licensing Agency
HE Mattar Al Tayer ,Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads
and Transport Authority( RTA ,)has opened the Smart Monitoring Center at the Licensing Agency to
monitor the performance of licensing service suppliers in Dubai Emirate .Its monitoring activities cover
vehicle technical testing centers ,driving institutes and the remote monitoring of heavy trucks.
The Center is fitted with surveillance monitors and hi-tech gadgets linked driving centers .It also helps boost environmental sustainability through an
with surveillance cameras installed at centers affiliated to providers of li- intense monitoring of vehicle technical testing centers besides enhancing
censing services .The Center is also connected with monitoring devices the offering of smart sustainable government solutions & services through
fixed on heavy vehicles enabling it to communicate with the patrols of the implementation of smart techniques integrated in the electronic sys-
Dubai Police and the RTA on roads to report offending vehicles .The Cen- tems of the Center .The Center will also contribute to improving the rela-
ter aims to improve the safety of transport & traffic ,and curb accidents& tionship with service providers and strategic partners besides contributing
fatalities through intensifying the surveillance of the facilities of vehicles to raising the compliance with the applicable rules and regulations .Al
Briefing American Consul on
RTA’s smart mobility projects
HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads
and Transport Authority (RTA), has recently received in his office Mr. Paul Ramsey Malik, US Consul-
General to Dubai. During the meeting, the two parties discussed means of boosting cooperation &
sharing expertise between the RTA and American entities operating in rail, roads and transportation
fields. They have also explored the upcoming future road & infrastructure projects in Dubai given
the growing number of American companies specialized in roads and mass transit system projects
currently undertaken by RTA.

“Over the next few years, RTA will be developing
infrastructure & road projects costing about AED20 billion
including roads and transportation projects of Expo 2020
costing about AED15 billion. Expo 2020 project covers
the extension of the Red Line of Dubai Metro to the site
of Expo at a cost of AED10.6 billion and road projects
costing about AED3 billion. The portfolio of projects the
RTA intends to undertake in the near future includes the
extension of Dubai Metro Green Line, Phase II of the
Dubai Tram Project, and a variety of road & bridge projects.
Future projects offer a good opportunity for firms to bid for
tenders released by RTA.

Tayer stressed RTA’s commitment to deliver the best solutions in raising

the awareness & traffic safety levels ,besides employing smart technolo-
gies in various fields such as the smart monitoring of licensing service pro-
viders .The system ensures the compliance of providers and clients with
the approved systems of the RTA ,contributes to improving the level of se-
curity and traffic safety on roads ,and reduces accidents resulting from mal
driving practices of drivers .Ahmed Bahrozyan ,CEO of Licensing Agency
and Mohammed Nabhan ,Director of Monitoring & Enforcement briefed
Al Tayer about the tasks of the smart monitoring center .The Center has committed .All service providers are notified with all offences reported

four key systems namely :CCTV system ,eVehicle Safety System ,Central by the Smart Monitoring Center .During the initial phase ,the Center re-

Vehicle Testing System ,and the Smart Licensing & Traffic System. ported offences on a trial bases to alert service providers and urge them

Explaining the roles of the Center ,Bahrozyan said“ ,It is the first center to comply with the procedures & controls set for the delivery of service

of its kind in the RTA that monitors violations in technical testing centers and take corrective measures .From the start of this year ,the RTA start-

and vehicle driving facilities through surveillance cameras .It issues of- ed to issue offences bearing respective fines as stipulated in the appli-

fences in absentia and retains video clips & images in proof of violations cable legislations.

Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 20 - 21

Our Projects

Completion rate of Airport St.

Improvement Project hits 30%
continuous monitoring, evaluation
of traffic diversions
HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors
of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), announced the completion of 30% of the first
contract for the improvement of Airport Street involving the construction of Rashidiya
and Casablanca interchanges. The completion rate has reached 25% in other contract
covering Nad Al Hamar and Marrakech interchanges.

Al Tayer made this statement during an inspection visit to
the Airport Street Interchanges Improvement Project costing
AED404 million. During the tour, Al Tayer was accompanied
by Engineer Maitha bin Adai, CEO of Traffic & Roads Agency,
Engineer Nabeel Mohammed Saleh, Director of Roads as
well as several directors and engineers of the Agency.
Traffic Diversions
“RTA has charted out a comprehensive plan for traffic diver-
sions to ensure a smooth traffic flow. It has diverted traffic in
both directions of Rashidiya Street, and work is currently pro-
gressing in bridge works and the shifting of the existing utility
lines. The work area has been fully separated by a high bar-
rier to muffle the noise as much as possible from disturbing road
users and residents of nearby areas. The traffic will be diverted
at Marrakech and Casablanca intersections by the end of this
month, and the contractor is currently working on bridges at the
intersections of Nad Al Hamar, Marrakech and Casablanca in con-
currence with the shifting of utility lines. The RTA is always keen
to ensure that the design of the temporary diversion is identical
to the design of permanent roads in terms engineering design,
and levels of the surface and the asphalt, and the provision of
sufficient lighting matching to the designed road speed to ensure
the safety of users. The diversion maintains the same number of
lanes to ensure a smooth traffic flow without negatively impact-
ing the traffic volumes to avoid any snarls,” stated Al Tayer .
He stressed the importance of continuously reviewing, monitor-
ing and evaluating traffic diversions to avoid traffic congestions
during the project, which serves Dubai Airport, and several oth-
er hotspots in the downtown area. He directed to increase the
number of engineers, supervisors and workers to step up the
work progress and ensure timely completion of the project.
“The Airport Road Improvement Project is part of a plan set by
the RTA for accommodating the projected growth in the num-
ber of passengers using the Dubai International Airport which is
expected to shoot to 92 million passengers by 2020. Thus the
traffic study highlighted the importance of finalizing the im-
provement of the Airport Road by 2017,” continued Al Tayer.
4 Interchanges
“The project comprises the construction of bridges, a tunnel at
the intersection of Marrakech, and bridges at the intersection
of Rashidiya as well as the intersections of the Airport St. with
Casablanca St. and Nad Al Hamar St. It also includes improving
at-grade intersections, and constructing a service road of three
lanes in each direction to separate the traffic movement from
and to Nad Al Hamar St. from the vehicular flow on the Airport
Street starting from Rashidiya Intersection up to Marrakech In-
tersection. The project will contribute to increasing the capaci-
ty of the Airport St. by an additional 5000 vehicles per hour. It
will also enhance the traffic safety level and reduce the journey
time on the Airport St. from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed St. to
Casablanca St. from 30 minutes to 5 minutes. The improvement
of Rashidiya Intersection comprises the construction of a bridge
on the Airport St. of 3 lanes in each direction, which is expected
to slash the waiting time at the interchange from 13 minutes to
less than one minute,” commented Al Tayer.
“The upgrading of the Airport St. – Nad Al Hamar St. Intersec-
tion encompasses the construction of an additional bridge of two
lanes in each direction to serve the traffic coming from Nad Al
Hamar St. heading towards the Airport St. The project will ease
the current snarls resulting from the overlapping traffic at Nad Al
Hamar Intersection between the first circular slope heading to
the left, from Nad Al Hamar St to the Airport St. It will also ease
the traffic movement on the second circular slope heading left,
from the Airport St. to Nad Al Hamar St. Vehicular traffic on the
first circular slope will be restricted to U-turns in the direction of
Nad Al Hamar St.,” elaborated Al Tayer.
“The project also includes the construction of a flyover of three
lanes in each direction on the Airport St. along with a ramp
stretching from the bridge directly to Terminal 3 of Dubai Inter-
national Airport, bypassing the waiting at the light signal. A tun-
nel of two lanes in each direction is under construction to serve
the leftward-bound traffic movement from the Airport St. to the
direction of Marrakech St., which reduces the waiting time at the
junction from seven minutes to less than one minute.
“The upgrading of the Airport St. – Casablanca St. Intersection
includes the construction of an additional single-lane bridge to
serve the traffic from the Airport St. in the direction of Casa-
blanca St. without waiting at the light signal. It also includes the
construction of an alternative street for traffic coming from Al
Garhoud enabling vehicles direct access to Terminal 1 and 3 of
the Dubai International Airport, besides increasing the number
of lanes of Casablanca St. in the direction of Al Garhoud from 3
to 4 lanes.
“The project will also reduce the total waiting time at Casablan-
ca St. from three minutes to one minute, and ease tailbacks
generated by the overlapping movement of vehicles heading to-
wards Casablanca Interchange and those coming from Terminal
1 heading towards Casablanca St.,” added the Director General
and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA.
“RTA is proceeding ahead with the upgrading of the infrastruc-
ture of road networks and mass transit systems in Dubai Emirate
by figuring out integrated solutions for land and marine transit
systems that are safe for users and compatible with the Dubai
Strategic Plan 2021. Such solutions are intended to respond to
the needs of hosting Expo 2020, demographic growth, and con-
tribute to the development & investments in the Emirate,” he
concluded.
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 22 - 23
 Our Services

200 vehicles for Smart Car Rental

Rental value ranges from AED24 to AED30 an hour
HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors
of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) inaugurated on 15 January 2017 the Smart Rental
Service, the first of its kind in the Middle East. The service enables customers, especial-
ly public transport users, to rent cars for short periods not exceeding six hours via smart
apps. To do so, RTA has contracted with U drive and ekar companies to operate 200 vehi-
cles (100 each) at a fare ranging from 40 to 50 fils per minute (according to the location of
returning the vehicle) i.e. AED24 to AED30 per hour.

In a speech delivered during the service inauguration ceremony, Mobility Solutions

which took place nearby the Dubai Water Canal in the presence
of CEOs and Directors, Al Tayer said, “The smart rental service
supports RTA’s efforts to bring happiness to people and increase
the ridership of public transport means. The service also aims to
enhance the integration of mass transit systems through easing
the mobility of commuters, especially metro and tram riders, to
their final destinations. The service, which is offered to custom-
ers. It started from 16 January 2017 and enabled the rental of ve-
hicles for short periods not exceeding six hours via smart apps on
mobile phones and tablets. At a later stage, the service would
be available through the Integrated Mobility Platform in Dubai.
“Vehicles are deployed over 45 locations including five main lo-
cations at Dubai Metro stations namely: Rashidiya, Burjuman,
Ibn Battuta, Union, and Business Bay Stations. RTA would beef-
up the fleet of smart rental cars through a tender, and assess the
map for deploying vehicles guided by the results of the initial
operation phase as well as customers’ preferences. RTA would
also mull the provision of the service using environment-friendly
electric or hybrid vehicles,” commented Al Tayer.
“The hourly car rental system provides bespoke alternative tran-
sit means for public transport riders in Dubai that goes with their
needs and requirements, and offers them access to the best
global practices of car-sharing of rented vehicles, besides pro-
viding highly efficient and cost-effective transit means.
“RTA had made prior coordination with the Dubai Police General
HQ to ensure that the companies licensed to practice the Hourly
Car Rental Service satisfy all the security procedures applicable to
the car rental system. This includes registration in the Online Infor-
mation System of Car Rental Offices, and linking their online sys-
tems with the information system of car rental offices,” he added.
Vilhelm Hedberg, Co-Founder & CEO of ekar, said, “We con-
gratulate RTA on launching this partnership, which offers Dubai
residents and visitors alike absolute driving accessibility.
“As part of our partnership, half of the ekar fleet is deployed
around the Dubai Metro stations to provide seamless linking of
communities across the Emirate with end-to-end transportation
solutions. Through this visionary carshare scheme, we will pro-
vide freedom of driving a car without the hassle that ownership
gives,” continued Hedberg.
Hasib Khan, Managing Director of U Drive, said, “Car Sharing has
developed to a sustainable mobility with a strong growth world-
wide. We believe that Dubai’s Smart Vision, the transient nature
of life and the overriding costs of car ownership, make Car Shar-
ing an excellent mobility solution.
“For those who don’t want to commit to ownership, or don’t
have the need for everyday car accessibility, U Drive makes the
perfect option, whilst being also a reliable connector to the pub-
lic transport. We are pleased to be the first Public Car Sharing
provider in the Middle East and to be a part of Dubai’s Smart Vi-
sion,” he continued.
Steps of Service Accessibility
Abdulla Yousef Al Ali, CEO of Public Transport Agency said,
“The smart rental service is limited to certain areas in Dubai, and
is offered via smart apps by two companies: U Drive UAE and
ekar. UAE-resident customers should first register in the system
to avail the service by entering ID, driving license and credit card
details, in addition to a photo of the ID holder (to verify registra-
tion in the system). Visitors are required to enter passport, visa,
driving license and credit card details.”
“Upon validating the accuracy of data provided, the customer is
issued with a Personal Identification Number (PIN), before he or
she can enter the user name and password. The customer can
now track the cars available and then book one. The car door is
opened by clicking an icon in the smart App and is switched on by
entering the (PIN) in the device fitted in the vehicle. The vehicle can
be locked through the Smart App and parked at RTA’s parking lots
only. The bill will be dispatched to customers via the e-system.
Hourly Car Rental Resolution
The Hourly Car Rental Resolution in Dubai Emirate No. 49/2016
issued by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin
Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the
Executive Council, has specified the obligations of companies
authorised to offer car rental services in the emirate. These ob-
ligations include observing the licensing conditions & franchise
contract signed, providing offices, deploying the minimum num-
ber of vehicles, and providing parking lots befitting the nature of
the activity, as stipulated in the Executive Regulations. They also
include providing guidance & orientation about the terms and
conditions of car rental agreement, among others.”
The Resolution obliged licensed companies to use the vehicles
in the activity specified in the permit, besides writing the name
of the company and the number of authorised riders in a clear &
visible manner on the outer body of the vehicle. They must use
the parking lots approved by RTA’s Licensing Agency and stake-
holders in practising the activity. They must not affix any stickers
or promotional materials on the body of the vehicle without a
prior written approval from RTA. They must also undertake the
annual vehicle registration and insurance, and refrain from rent-
ing a vehicle to anyone who does not hold a driver’s license rec-
ognised by RTA in Dubai.
Under the Resolution, companies are required to maintain re-
cords for the movement of vehicles and their locations and pre-
pare data & statistics required by RTA’s Licensing Agency. They
must also abide by the fares set by RTA, create periodic vehi-
cle maintenance logs, and register on the Online Information
System of Car Rental Offices, which must be linked to the said
smart car rental system as per procedures adopted by RTA and
the authorities concerned.
Car rental companies are also committed not to rent any vehi-
cle to a user unregistered on the Online Information System of
Car Rental Offices, and never assign the permit to a third party or
modify it without the approval of RTA’s Licensing Agency. Com-
panies must not suspend the hourly car rental service without
approval of the Agency, and never exceed the daily rental period
of six hours per day. They must also install GPS vehicle tracking
devices, and notify the competent authorities about any actions
that may prejudice public security.
User obligations
The Resolution obliges the renter of a light vehicle to abide by
the driving & traffic rules in Dubai, use the vehicle as per the car
rental contract made with the company, and never exceed the
vehicle occupancy rate. Users must report to the authorities
concerned all leftovers found onboard, not exceed the allowed
period of use, and never allow a third party to drive the vehicle.
Caption:
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 24 - 25
 Our Services

A smart car recovery project in

collaboration with AAA
RTA’s Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) has signed a contract with the Arabian Automobile Asso-
ciation (AAA), a leading provider of roadside services, to operate a smart car recovery system
to be launched this March. The system is designed to offer roadside assistance in case of vehi-
cle breakdown through a smart app, which will be rolled out with the project launch for use in
all smartphones. The move is intended to facilitate the services offered to the public with the
aim of realizing RTA’s first strategic goal (Smart Dubai) to nurture a modern system capable of
reducing accidents and increasing the traffic safety as well as the level of rapid deployment
service, if needed, to alleviate traffic congestion.

An announcement to this effect was made during a signing of
an agreement at RTA Head Office by Dr. Yousef Mohammed Al
Ali, CEO of DTC and Mohammed bin Sulayem, Chairman of the
AAA. A host of senior officials including Mohammed Obaid Al
Mulla, Member of RTA’s Board of Executive Directors and Chair-
man of DT Council attended the signing.
“The smart car recovery system is operated via the smart app
by sending the coordinates of the location of the faulty vehicle
to the nearest available recovery vehicle to the location. The as-
sistance is delivered through a variety of service options name-
ly: vehicle towing, 10 liters of fuel, tire repair, simple mechanical
faults (battery drain), closed door opening, and towing to the
technical workshop,” said Al Ali.
“This project echoes the directions of our leadership, which at-
taches paramount importance to intangible assets as the quick
processing, target achieving and creating projects as well as
quality, safety & perfection are exclusive features of Dubai. This
initiative is also part of RTA’s objectives aimed at nurturing an in-
tegrated & sustained infrastructure of transport networks at the
highest standards worldwide. The DTC is in constant pursuit of

Multiple addresses feature to

Booking & Dispatch System of taxis
RTA’s Public Transport Agency has added a new feature to the Booking & Dispatch System
of taxis in Dubai .Accordingly ,the customer can register multiple addresses ,instead of one,
in the Booking & Dispatch System .The step underlines the keenness of RTA and affiliated
agencies to use the latest technologies in delivering a raft of sophisticated services at the
highest global standards prevailing in advanced countries .The move stems out of RTA’s ef-
forts to deliver streamlined ,quick and transparent services to all community segments in a
bid to boost the excellence and happiness drive of this sector.

“The multiple addresses feature has been added to the interac- Customers can then communicate through the IVR system and
tive voice response system( IVR )whereby each customer can easily select one of the three registered addresses to complete
enter up to three addresses( home ,office ,others )in the system. a booking without speaking to the service staff .The new feature
distinctive initiatives that meet the needs of Dubai visitors & res-
idents, contributes to enhancing the traffic safety, and reducing
crashes,” continued Al Ali.
Mohammed bin Sulayem, Chairman of the AAA, said, “The
DTC’s initiative, which aims to turn the car recovery business into
a digital platform, would be a positive step that contributes to
easing the traffic movement in Dubai. The app would provide
high-quality services to motorists in Dubai. The AAA took the
initiative of offering its services in this field in order to turn this
concept into a reality under the supervision of the DTC.
“The project would help provide car recovery services and road-
side assistance online through a smart app on mobile phones.
Thus, it helps facilitate the traffic movement and alleviate traffic
bottlenecks in main roads & highways due to accidents and ve-
hicle breakdown. Through this technology, the motorist would
not be obliged to wait for long for towing his or her vehicle, and
would be able to track the movement of the recovery vehicle on
its way for providing assistance,” added Bin Sulayem.

offers clients ,especially taxi riders ,more flexibility in availing the the incoming call has become 29 seconds only.
taxi service ”,said Abdullah Al Mahri ,Director of Transport Activi- It is noteworthy that the telephone number designated for the
ties Monitoring ,Public Transport Agency of RTA. Booking & Dispatch Center of taxis is.04-2080808
“The taxi sector is experiencing a growing demand fueled by the
current urbanization drive in Dubai city ;which is continuously
shaping into a prominent destination for business leaders and in-
vestors from all parts of the globe .Such developments warrant
increasing the efficiency of the fleet through adding additional
features to the system enabling speedy processing of requests
through using technology-aided processes ”,explained Al Mahri.
The Booking & Dispatch Center of taxis in Dubai is responsible
for executing taxi booking requests received from taxi riders
comprising various community members such as citizens ,res-
idents ,visitors ,and tourists .The Center offers quick & smooth
services ,and the average time of dispatching a vehicle to the
customer has reached 14.3 minutes and the response time to

Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 26 - 27

 Our Services

Launching service for inquiry,

buying of special plates online
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the launch of a new service for in-
quiring about special plates that customers are interested in buying through RTA’s website
(www.rta.ae). The move, which is part of the Smart City initiative of the Dubai Govern-
ment, replicates RTA’s third strategic goal (People Happiness).

Explaining the service, the Director of Vehicles Licensing of RTA’s
Agency Sultan Al Marzooki, said, “Offering the inquiry about
special numbers service through RTA’s website (www.rta.ae)
is part of our commitment to support the Smart City initiative.
The service is accessible via several means all online. Customers
can fill the details required on the webpage and instantly buy the
plate using a credit card, and a courier company would deliver
the ownership certificate. The customer can also log on to the
Licensing page to select the number & code fancied to know if it
is available or otherwise.”
“Alternatively, the client can set a budget to know the num-
bers offered against that fixed amount. The customer can
also search for plates in a specific number pattern, such as
starting and ending with a specific number. This smart system
can nominate personalized numbers for the client, who has a
traffic file with RTA, corresponding to his or her date of birth,
mobile number …etc. The customer can also screen numbers
similar to the ones already owned but in other codes. It also
enables the customer to retrieve old number retained in the
traffic file or registered against a vehicle of the customer,” ex-
plained Al Marzooki.
“Some plates are offered for direct purchase through the sys-
tem, and others are subject to an RTA’s approval such as re-
questing a plate with a specific number in order to communi-
cate the approval to the customer who has to complete the
procedures of owning the plate. The service does not require
a deposit unless the customer has had previously violated the
rules of buying plates such as the failure to settle a financial

Thanks to huge interest, operation

of Smart Vehicle extended
Used by 1500 persons
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with Dubai Properties, extended
the trial run of the autonomous vehicle deployed in the Business Bay to Feb 22nd. The de-
cision has been taken in response to the encouraging number of users of the vehicle, which
is 1500 persons. The 10-seater vehicle has been deployed to shuttle over a 600 meter-long
track in the Business Bay following the successes of the initial two phases of the trial opera-
tion at the Dubai World Trade Center and the Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard.

“The trial run of the driverless vehicle in the Business Bay marks
the third phase of the trial operation following the success-
ful debut at the World Trade Center and the second trial at the
Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard in coordination with Emaar.
The extension of the trial run has been considered in response
to the wishes of more than 1500 visitors during the first month
who were excited with the experience,” said Khaled Al-Awadi,
Director of Automatic Fare Collection System at RTA’s Corporate
Technology Support Services Sector.
“The strategic plan of the RTA envisages the testing of au-
obligation of owning a plate within the fixed time limit i.e. 10
days from the date of issuing approval.
“RTA will spare no effort in streamlining the accessibility
of special plates to customers to save their time and effort
tonomous vehicles under Dubai climate conditions. The tri-
al run is also intended to give the public a feel of the smart
vehicles technology, test the operation under Dubai climate
conditions, and showcase the Autonomous Mobility Strategy
of the Dubai Government aimed at transforming 25% of to-
through adopting the best global standards of bringing happi-
ness to people. Such goals rank high in RTA priorities, especial-
ly as special plates reflect a wish of a wide spectrum of com-
munity members in Dubai.
tal mobility journeys in Dubai to driverless journeys on public
transport means by 2030. The experience seeks to screen the
views of the public about the driverless mobility experience
through a questionnaire; which will also gauge their satisfac-
tion rating.
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 28 - 29
 Figures

543 million riders used public

“Metro, tram, buses, water transport and taxis account
HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads
and Transport Authority (RTA) revealed that public transport means in Dubai, comprising the met-
ro, tram, buses and marine transit modes (abras, ferry, water taxi, water bus) in addition to taxis
(Dubai Taxi and franchise companies) had lifted in 2016 about 543.6 million riders compared with
539.558 million riders in 2015, according to figures released by RTA Statistics Section. The average
daily ridership of public transport means in Dubai last year clocked about 1.5 million riders.

“The Dubai Metro has taken the largest slice of public transport
commuters accounting for 35%, followed by taxis (33%), and
public buses (28%). December recorded the highest number in
commuters and reached 47 m riders. The breakdown was as fol-
lows: Dubai Metro: 17.184 m riders, taxis: 15.315 m riders, buses:
12.508 m riders, marine transit means: 1.46 m riders, and Dubai
Tram: 540 thousand riders. The number of public transport rid-
ers reached 46.927 m riders in March, and 46.288 m riders in
November,” said Al Tayer.
Record Numbers
“Last year, the Dubai Metro has lifted in both the Red and Green
Lines 191.3 m riders compared with 178.647 m riders in 2015.
The Red Line of Dubai Metro has seen a healthy growth in 2016
clocking 121.6 m riders compared with 112.7 m riders in 2015. The
Green Line has lifted in 2016 about 69.7 m riders compared with
65.942 m riders served in 2015. Burjuman and Union Stations,
which are two transfer stations at the intersection of the Red &
Green Lines, have accounted for the biggest chunk of riders with
transit means in Dubai in 2016
for 24% of people mobility in Dubai,” Al Tayer

Burjuman Station recording 11.644 m riders, and the Union Sta- Average daily ridership
tion clocking 10.522 m riders. Al-Rigga Station was the busiest touches 1.5m riders
on the Red Line (8.293 m riders) followed by Deira City Center
Station (7.392 m riders), ahead of Burj Khalifa Station (7.254 m
riders). On the Green Line, Al Fahidi Station ranked first by the
number of riders (7.945 m riders), next came Baniyas Station
(6.41 m riders), and the third was the Stadium Station (5.665 m
riders),” stated Al Tayer.
“The Dubai Tram has lifted last year 5.4 m riders compared with
4.07 m riders in 2015. The number of public bus riders recorded
151.1 m riders last year compared with 134.775 m riders in 2015.
Around 14 m riders in 2016 used the marine transport means
(abras, waterbus, water taxi and Dubai Ferry), which is almost
the same number of riders recorded in 2015. Taxis (comprising

Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 30 - 31

 Figures

Dubai Taxi, Hala Taxi and Franchise companies) have lifted 181.8 Dubai Metro lifts 191m riders,
m riders last year,” he explained. Buses lift 151m riders

Backbone this regard contributed to the growing numbers of public trans-

“Comprising a full range of integrated services, the public trans- port users across the board. The share of public transport in the
port network in Dubai has become the backbone of people’s mobility of people has leapfrogged from 6% in 2006 to 16% in
mobility in various parts of the Emirate of Dubai. RTA’s efforts in 2016. If we add taxis, the share would shoot to as high as 24%.
RTA is endeavouring to push the share of public transport (metro,
tram, buses, and water transport) to 20% by 2020, and 30%
by 2030. Equally important, RTA had managed to transform
the culture of various segments of the community and their
attitudes towards using public transport. People have started
to grasp and feel the benefits associated with the use of mass
transit means such as the physical relief, peace of mind, financial
saving, high safety, lower expenses of car usage in terms of fuel
and maintenance among others,” noted Al Tayer.
Al Tayer was delighted with these indicators, which depict the
effectiveness of plans and programs undertaken by RTA in pro-
viding a variety of options for moving people in Dubai. “The stra-
tegic and executive plans for roads and transport systems pur-
sued by RTA are based on the principle of integrated services. It
Taxi Marine Public Buses
Million Million
means that achieving smooth & accessible mobility in the Emir-
ate hinges on providing integrated solutions in terms of improv-
ing and broadening roads network and crossings, and upgrading
various components of mass transit systems such as the met-
ro, tram, buses and water transport means. It also depends on
upgrading the technology used in traffic & transport systems to
ensure the optimal utilization and highest efficiency of roads and
mass transit systems, adopting policies capable of reducing the
semi-total reliance of the public on private vehicles and increas-
ing their reliance on other transit systems including public trans-
port. RTA plans are also focused on encouraging journey-sharing
practices especially in a city like Dubai where people ownership
of private vehicles is as high as one vehicle per two persons,” he
commented.
Dubai Tram Dubai Metro
Million Million Million
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 32 - 33
 Figures

Call Center handles over

2m calls in 2016
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that its Call Center has received 2,177,521
calls in 2016, and the response time has covered 86.3% of incoming calls within the targeted
time response time of 20 seconds per call. The Centre has also received 53,298 reports about
lost items where more than 70% of them were found, recording a sign-off rate of 99%. Addition-
ally, Madinati system has received 25,208 cases.

“The number of calls picked up by the Call Center (8009090)

reflects the extent of interaction between the Center and RTA
clients, and the considerable attention attached by the RTA to
their services, inquiries, suggestions, complaints … etc. Record-
ing such a high response rate to incoming calls is also indicative
of the multiple and diverse services provided by the RTA to the
public,” said Yousef Al Rida, CEO of RTA Corporate Administra-
tive Support Services Sector.
“The Call Center has received 2,177,521 calls in 2016. The calls “The Call Center has made outstanding achievements under-
were as follows: 778,088 calls relate to the Public Transport scoring its success in realizing its tasks in 2016 at the highest
Agency; 62,040 calls relate to the Licensing Agency; 211,115 standards highlighted by clinching the award of the Best Call
calls relate to the Traffic & Roads Agency; 142,638 calls relate Center in Dubai in the Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart Govern-
to the Corporate Technology Support Services Sector; 107,940 ment Awards. The RTA always seeks to enhance the third stra-
calls relate to the Rail Agency; 55,734 calls relate to the Dubai tegic goal (People Happiness); considering it the backbone of
Taxi Corporation; 74,069 calls relate to the Corporate Adminis- its strategy for improving services and the means of delivering
trative Support Services Sector; and 353 calls relate to the Strat- them by capitalizing on smart and the latest technological ad-
egy & Corporate Governance Sector,” explained Al Rida. vancements.

AED4.8 million is the turnover of

45th electronic auction
S 452 made AED205,000
The three-digit plate (S 452) marked the highest price, which is AED 205,000 at the 45th elec-
tronic distinctive plate numbers auction of the private and classic, and motorcycles organized by
Licensing Agency. It contained 300 of distinctive three, four and five digits plate numbers. The
codes were G,H,J,K,L,M,N,O,P,Q,R,S. the total turnover was AED4,893,100.

The three-digit number (S 435) placed the second in terms enue within the four-digit numbers, which is AED35,000.
of its turnover that reached AED195,000. The (G697) made The four-digit (S 8055) placed second in terms of its turnover
AED194,000. The four-digit plate number made the highest rev- within the four-digit numbers that reached AED30,200. The
Wojhati system
records 1.6m users
The figure reflects a 44% rise in users
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that the
number of users of the Journey Planner system, branded as Wo-
jhati, has clocked 1,636,369 users in 2016, thus leapfrogging the
1,168,234 users recorded in 2015 by as much as 44%. Uses of Wo-
jhati system are recorded through its website as well as its apps on
smartphones and gadgets.
Mohammed Abdullah Al Ali, Director of Planning & Business
Development, RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said: “This sharp
rise in the number of users from 2015 to 2016 reflects a quantum
shift in the attractiveness of this smart system whose number of
users has been on the rise since launched in late 2013. Recording
more than 1.6 users last year means that the service is achiev-
ing its intended objective of bringing happiness to customers. It
reflects RTA’s keenness to provide services compatible with the
directives of Dubai Government in developing new technologies
capable of bringing happiness to customers. RTA spares no effort
to realize such a vision that shapes the future of Dubai and ranks
it as the smartest city worldwide.
“Wojhati system provides all information about buses, Metro,
tram, and marine transport needed by public transport commut-
ers in Dubai, be it residents, visitors or tourists descending on the
(R 1691) made AED 27,200. The fifth-digit number (R 12333)
made AED25,400. The (S 12220) made AED24,900 and
the (S 32221) made AED22,500. The auction witnessed 100
persons.
Al Marzooki stressed the importance of online plates to a large
segment of the public who prefer it as it gives them the liberty
of selecting plates in a hassle-free environment. Online auctions
also enhance the online service offering of Vehicles Licensing
Department as part of its plan to enhance the quality of process-
ing public transactions.
“The participation in the Auction requires registration via a num-
ber of communication channels such as logging on to RTA’s web-
site (www.rta.ae) using the account details or signing up by click-
ing on the new user link to obtain a new username and password.
Emirate from all over the globe. The information provided by Wo-
jhati covers scheduled arrival timing of the public transport mode
required as well as the time remaining for its arrival, applicable
fare, guidance about the required destinations and alerts in case
of delays. It also includes a feature enabling commuters to track
the movement of buses en route. Wojhati uses satellite coordi-
nates to identify the location of the user when its system on the
smart phone or device of the user is switched on, and accordingly
provides all details about the set destination. Tourists have been
given due consideration at the time of designing the app as it
provides them with guidance about the use of public transport
means in Dubai to assist them to travel to their destinations from
various locations. The system can also function offline as it has
a feature of saving the schedules of the journeys required in the
phone and using them any time needed,” explained Al Ali.
Conditions of the auction stipulate that the bidder must have a
vehicle registered in Dubai, or a driver license issued from Dubai
or otherwise heading to a customer happiness center in Dubai
to seek assistance in completing the registration process. The
potential bidder is required to pay AED 5,000 as a security de-
posit before the start of bidding through a credit card, a cheque
addressed to the RTA, or in cash. The Dep’t undertakes to refund
the deposited security amounts to bidders after the end of the
Auction, according to the way in which each deposit was made,”
he added.
A team from RTA’s Call Center has been furnished with all infor-
mation related to the auction, and stands ready to respond to any
public inquiries made through the toll-free number 8009090
about procedures of participation or payment.
Issue No. 105 March 2017 almasar 34 - 35